I only had Professor Fortes for the first two weeks of this quarter, but I already knew that the class would be my favorite. Although our class was later in the day, Professor Fortes kept the atmosphere lively by making jokes and sharing personal stories. I am writing this, however, not because of my far too short experience with Dr. Fortes but because of all the people who reacted when I told them that Dr. Fortes had passed away. My classmates and good friends were all appalled and greatly saddened upon hearing the news. They told me that Dr. Fortes was one of their favorite professors because of his genuine care for his students and passion for teaching. Even in just the first two weeks of the quarter, I could already see how genuine and kind of a character he had. I wish I had the chance to be his student for longer, but I know that his legacy will live on through all his students. 

Professor Fortes was one of the closest mentors I had during my 5 years at UCSD. I learned from him in 3 courses, and I taught alongside him for 2 years. I loved hearing his stories from both his PhD and MD programs at the University of Pennsylvania and Yale University. He told me many stories during the school year and after classes. He reminisced often about how he ended up pursuing both degrees. He was captivated by a lecture in medical school, felt an intense desire to learn more, and ended up conducting research with that lecturer. Professor Fortes often felt confined by rote memorization of the known, and he wanted to push the boundaries of basic biology. He has provided me with an incredible amount of guidance and support, and I hope I can share my memories in person one day with his family. Thank you for everything, Professor Fortes, and I promise to strive for excellence in all that I do!

Graveside Service

El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley & Memorial Park

Peter Fortes

immediate need

Death has occurred or is near

plan ahead

Pre-plan a funeral or cremation

Plan a Funeral or Cremation Default Desktop

Find Obituaries and Services

sympathy and etiquette

grief library

celebrations of life

What to Say When Someone Dies

Show Your Support

Sympathy and Grief

obituary

services

memories

Obit Detail

In the care of

share to facebook

share by email

share link

Share Obituary

ideas and resources

Sympathy and Grief Mobile

OBITUARY

Peter Alexander George Fortes

2 August, 1944 – 4 October, 2019

El Camino Memorial - Sorrento Valley & Memorial Park

Show your support

Add a Memory

Share Obituary

Get Reminders

Services